The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio received the Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan award for streamlining customs processes and enhancing the country’s investment appeal.
The Department of Trade and Industry – Board of Investments (DTI-BOI) presented the award during a ceremony at Malacañang Palace, recognizing government agencies and local units that foster a business-friendly environment under Executive Order No. 18 (EO 18) on Green Lanes.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. praised the honorees for their role in improving investment facilitation. “This award is a call to stay the course and ensure that the progress we have begun continues to build momentum,” he said.
In 2024, the BOC implemented key reforms, including:
• Institutionalizing the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC) to strengthen stakeholder collaboration.
• Expanding the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program to accredit trusted traders.
• Launching the ATA Carnet system to allow duty-free temporary imports.
• Issuing preferential tariff guidelines under the Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement (PH-KR FTA) to optimize trade benefits.
These measures improved trade security, reduced processing times, and strengthened the Philippines’ standing in regional and global trade.
Commissioner Rubio expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the BOC’s commitment to modernizing customs operations. “We will continue pushing for reforms that promote seamless trade and economic growth,” he said.
